One of Rome’s most famous and imposing structures, the Colosseum was once the battleground for gladiators. A testament to the magnificence, power and prestige of ancient Rome, this structural and engineering marvel was also the site where thousands of gladiators, criminals and Christians met their bloody end. One of the greatest works of Roman architecture—it could hold more than 70,000 spectators, with tiered seats inclined so as to ensure good views for all—what remains today is but a mere skeleton of the structure’s former glory.

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In a city of countless beautiful churches and chapels, St Peter's Basilica succeeds in outshining the multitude. It is believed that the basilica is located on the spot where the first pope was executed—he was crucified upside down, as he believed he was unworthy to die in the same way as Jesus—and over the years, many architects and artists have participated in its restoration and construction. The new pope is announced to the world from the central balcony, which is called the Loggia of the Blessings.

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In a city littered with architectural wonders, the Pantheon is able to stand out as a powerful beacon of the ancient Roman Empire. Although the original structure was built by Marcus Agrippa’s back in 80 AD, the present building dates to around 120 AD when the Emperor Hadrian built over the original after it was destroyed by a fire (Agrippa’s name can still be seen in the dedication above the granite columns). Among several illustrious names, Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I, and Renaissance painter Raphael are buried here.

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Contrary to what one would expect, this social stairway—138 steps to be exact—is one of the most stunning spots to lounge in the city, especially during spring, when beautiful red azaleas grow all around the edges. The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna were created by Francesca de Sanctis in the 18th century. In the 19th century, this spot was frequented by the city’s elite, and even today it’s one of the most popular spots to pose for photographs. The curved flight of stairs are filled with chattering crowds till late into the summer nights, and during the day they serve as an excellent picnic spot and hang-out. Occasionally they’re even used as a backdrop for fashion shows and in movies.

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Picking the best espresso in Rome can be something of a challenge, but the cuppa at Antico Caffe Greco manages to surpass all others with its delicious hot brew. Dating back 250 years, this is the oldest coffee shop in Rome—legends like Casanova, Goethe, Wagner, Baudelaire and Byron have all stopped by for a beverage—and its location close to the Spanish Steps makes it easy to find. Stick to the foyer for lower prices, the interior can get a bit pricey.

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Historically, this is where Spartacus and 6,000 of his rebel army were crucified, but today the first 16 km of Via Appia Antica—the 2300-year-old road over which many great dramas of history have been played out—are part of a protected parkland that's home to archaeological ruins amidst verdant surroundings. The best way to explore is by biking down the cobbled road bordered by pine trees.

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To truly enjoy one of Rome's most beautiful locations, visit St Peter's Square during the early hours of the morning to avoid the throngs of people that start to pour in around noon. Located directly in front of St Peter's Basilica, this mammoth space is inundated with thousands of pilgrims from around the world every Sunday who come to listen to the pope's noon address. With about 140 statues of saints, martyrs and popes adorning the square's colonnades, an Egyptian obelisk (which was brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula) occupies centrestage and was once used as a turning post in chariot races.

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With a brightly-lit interior and an exceedingly charming patio outside, Taverna Trilussa is one of the most romantic places to dine at in the city, with a menu that’s stocked with some of the most delicious Italian food in Rome. Run by brothers Massimo and Maurizio—the restaurant has been in the family for generations—their award-winning pastas are a house speciality, and everything is cooked with deliciously fresh ingredients.

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From the 15th to the 19th century this street was used as a racetrack for riderless horses during the Roman Carnival, and today it is one of the only straight streets in Rome, and the city’s main shopping thoroughfare. Extending from Piazza Venezia at the southern end to Piazza del Popolo in the north—with the highest concentration of shops around Piazza di Spagna—the street is peppered with designer boutiques, upmarket labels and branded high-street chain stores like Zara, Miss Sixty and Diesel.

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Amidst Rome’s classical treasures and traditional architecture, The Museum of Modern Art adds a slice of much-needed modernity. One of the newest kids on the museum block, the country's first institution devoted to contemporary creativity was designed by Iraqi born architect Zaha Hadid to contrast and compliment the city’s Baroque treasures. In addition to the art galleries, the property also houses a library, café, bar, restaurant and some beautiful gardens replete with statues and fountains.

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Amongst the city’s biggest draws, the Trevi Fountain looms 26 m high and covers a width of 20 m. Designed by Italian architect Nicolò Salvi, the structure took about 30 years to be completed—construction started in 1732 and commenced after Salvi’s death—and features Neptune (the god of the sea) riding a shell-shaped chariot pulled by two horses. It’s tradition to throw coins into the fountain; legend has it that the first coin ensures your return to Rome, the second coin leads to a romance with an Italian and the third leads to marriage with that person.

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The Vatican began collecting over 500 years ago, and has amassed one of the most iconic collection of the world's most important works—including mosaics, tapestries, classical paintings and ceramics from every culture and corner of the planet—all packed into a not-so-small microcosm. The Sistine Chapel is a work of art in itself, and houses the most famous painting in the world—The Creation of Adam by Michelangelo.

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A historic fruit and vegetable market by day—it’s been flourishing since 1869—and bar central by night, Campo de' Fiori Market sells everything from fish and flowers to tacky tourist souvenirs and antiques. Although a lot of locals still come here to stock up, its popularity has reduced over the years, owing to a hike in prices due to a large number of tourists passing through. Go here for the ambience—you’ll see sellers huddled together gossiping, trimming their vegetables, chopping fruit and boxing candy—and pick up some interesting knick-knacks while you’re at it.

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Grab a bottle of vino and a basket of food and head to Villa Pamphili for a picnic under the sun. Credited as the green heart of Rome and the largest public garden in the city, these beautifully landscaped gardens replete with Baroque fountains, stone statues, waterfalls and a lake are sprawled out across 455 acres. Named after its creator—Italian nobleman and nephew of Pope Innocent X, Camillo Pamphili—Villa Pamphili is also a source of rich vegetation and rare plants, and is home to animals including herons, moorhens, swans, geese and marsh turtles.

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This hugely popular Italian dessert might not be as well known as Tiramisu to outsiders, but is definitely worth ordering while you’re in Rome. One of the yummiest versions of it is served at Taverna degli Amici, a quiet restaurant at the bustling heart of the city. Nestled in an intimate square in the heart of Trastevere with beautiful outdoor setting and an elegant interior, this restaurant serves a range of traditional and modern dishes, and is miles ahead of its counterparts in terms of authenticity and flavour.

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